The Benefits of Extra Hydrogen: Part II

If you haven’t read the previous post about the health benefits of extra hydrogen, be sure you do that first, since it contains important information about hydrogen and how drinking hydrogen-enriched water can positively affect your body in numerous ways, including increasing your energy and improving the health of your gums. It also mentions how inhaling hydrogen can have significant protective effects on ischemic organs and possibly help people who have suffered from stroke, cardiac arrest, or heart attacks.

Today’s Part II focuses on several more ways adding extra hydrogen (H2) to your daily routine could benefit your health…

*IMPROVE THE EFFECT OF ANTIOXIDENTS

Check out this video where Dr. Gellibolian, PhD in biochemistry discusses the difference and how molecular hydrogen, not alkalinity, is what gives us the health benefit:

*IMPROVE THE SKIN

Watch this 6-minute video to find out more about how using hydrogen water and gas can offer benefits to the skin:

FYI, you can also put hydrogen-rich water into a spray bottle and use it on your skin, cuts, scrapes, etc. Just be sure the bottle is glass and not plastic, which could leach into the water.

*MAY HELP WITH HEARING LOSS

Great news has come from a double-blind randomized controlled trial at six hospitals between June 2019 and March 2022 examining the effectiveness of H2 in treating hearing loss in sixty-five patients with ISSNHL (sudden hearing loss) showing the changes in hearing threshold were significantly better in the H2 group than in the control group.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9731512/

*IMPROVE IMMUNE FUNCTION

Some food for thought from Dr Paul Barattiero about the benefits of hydrogen water:

“You need your immune function. You need your body performing at it’s peak and hydrogen is gonna do that within an hour…….And if your elimination pathways are not open, get the hydrogen water because it’s gonna open them and not have inflammation in the liver, the kidneys, the gallbladder, the pancreas, the whole pancreatic system……And ATP is critical and you want to have ATP. And the hydrogen water will get that mitochondrial function to peak really quickly, so you have energy. And also it reduces fatigue….There was actually a study on coffee versus hydrogen water, and the hydrogen water beat out coffee by 10% in it’s energy production ability in the body, but with no down cycle.

Oxidative stress and inflammation is the cause of cancer. And so, when you’re removing that, you’re removing all pathology and having the body be less susceptible. So, in many of these studies, 114 of them, it says hydrogen is anti-cancer. And so many of the studies, like in the colon cancer, it says hydrogen water can inhibit colon cancer. That’s a very strong language.”

And this is a great one to end on. It’s a story about a remarkable recovery due to inhaled hydrogen…

The case is of an 11-year-old boy with PVS caused by severe intracerebral bleeding in the left hemisphere following anticoagulation treatment. The patient’s PVS severity showed no notable improvement after 2-mo neuroprotective treatments and rehabilitation, including nerve growth factor and baclofen, hyperbaric oxygen, and comprehensive bedside rehabilitation therapies.

Then the doctors discussed and decide to provide the boy with daily inhalation treatment (4-6 h) where a high-concentration hydrogen (H2) gas (66.6% H2 + 33.3% O2) was provided. Surprisingly, the 11-year-old’s orientation, consciousness, ability to speak, facial expressions, and locomotor function were significantly restored, along with improvements in essential general health status, after H2 gas inhalation treatment, which was consistent with stabilized neuropathology in the left hemisphere and increased Hounsfield unit values of computed tomography in the right hemisphere. The patient finally recovered to a near-normal conscious state with a Coma Recovery Scale-Revised Score of 22 from his previous score of 3.

Research source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8855194/

As you can see from Part I and II, inhaling, drinking and soaking in hydrogen-rich water can have a positive effect on our health in a variety of ways, and there are a number of companies offering various types of hydrogen generators these days.

As I mentioned in Part I, I bought a device a number of years ago that made hydrogen-rich drinking water, but recently switched to the ION Bottle Pro 3000, because it offered several features my old one didn’t, including a nasal cannula inhaler attachment. It also has a self-cleaning option, features a carry handle, is lighter in weight (making it more portable), and not only has a 3 min. cycle, but also a 10 min. one that results in H2 up to 3000 ppb (therapeutic levels are 1.0 ppm/1000 ppb or greater), so you get a much higher concentration of hydrogen.

The Ion Bottles’ devices are designed to produce pure molecular hydrogen and they help your water maintain premium neutral pH levels, which they do with the help of electrolysis and the Proton Exchange Membrane inside. The Pro model also has a built-in down vent that expels the oxygen and ozone, and if chlorine or other oxides are present, it will filter those, too, leaving your water with 99.9% hydrogen up to 3.0 PPM, along with the H2O present.

FYI, hydrogen is the lightest molecule on earth, so it evaporates quickly, often within 10-15 minutes once exposed to air. But because the Pro 3000 has a more advanced membrane then Ion’s pitcher and original bottle devices, it will last upwards of 30 minutes in an open container. The beautiful part of a hydrogen generator is that, if the container has been open too long, you can always run another cycle to reinfuse more hydrogen, which isn’t the case with single use pouch and canned hydrogen water.

If you would like to order one of the ION Bottles devices, use this link and the code BETTERHEALTH4U for 10% off. Adding hydrogen water to your daily routine would be an easy way to “up” health quotient, AND would make a great health-promoting gift for friends and family!

Here’s to being healthy & free in 2023!

p.s. Be sure to follow Self-help Health to receive helpful tips on a regular basis.  And check out my website’s To Your Health page for even more useful information and resources for creating better health and well-being.

“Cucumber Redeux”

Too funny! I just saw a post on Facebook about interesting uses for cucumbers and was going to do a post on them when I did a search here and realized I’d already featured the information in a 2013 blog I’d completely forgotten about. It was perfect timing to be reminded of all the unusual uses because both my bedroom and bathroom doors recently developed squeaks and I don’t have any WD-40, so I was thinking about trying coconut oil as a remedy, but now I think I’ll go the cucumber route.

Anyway, I figured, with cucumber season just around the corner here in the southeast, it was time to remind myself and others of the health benefits and versatility of this underappreciated “warty green wonder.” And btw, one of my favorite healthy things to drink is made by throwing a chopped up organic cucumber into the Vitamix, along with a couple of organic celery stalks and some lemon or lime juice and water. Simple and very light and refreshing!

Cucumbers belong to the same botanical family as melons (including watermelon and cantaloupe) and squashes (including summer squash, winter squash, zucchini and pumpkin) and are made up of 96 percent water, so they are a great source of hydration for the body. They are also loaded with Vitamin A, which protects the body from free radicals and lowers the risk of various cancers and illness due to damaged cells. Vitamin A also has many other important functions, including aiding normal bone growth, white blood cell development and normal blood cell functioning, and eye health.

Cucumbers are also a good source of Vitamin K, which is mainly responsible for making some of the proteins the liver requires for blood clotting. It plays a role in building bone and other tissues of the body, as well. And a 100 g serving (around 3.5 oz.) of cucumber contains approximately 150 mg of potassium. This mineral aids in metabolic functions and plays a role in the development of muscle tissue. Adequate potassium is also necessary for maintaining normal electrical activity of the heart. Cucumbers also contain other beneficial minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus and magnesium.

Cucumbers have not received as much press as other vegetables in terms of health benefits, but this widely-cultivated food provides us with a unique combination of nutrients. At the top of the phytonutrient list for cucumbers are its cucurbitacins, lignans, and flavonoids. These three types of phytonutrients found in cucumbers provide us with valuable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer benefits.

ANTIOXIDANT & ANTI-INFLAMMATORY BENEFITS

Cucumbers are a valuable source of conventional antioxidant nutrients including vitamin C, beta-carotene, and manganese. In addition, cucumbers contain numerous flavonoid antioxidants, including quercetin, apigenin, luteolin, and kaempferol. In animal studies, fresh extracts from cucumber have been shown to provide specific antioxidant benefits, including increased scavenging of free radicals and increased overall antioxidant capacity. Fresh cucumber extracts have also been shown to reduce unwanted inflammation in animal studies. Cucumber accomplishes this task by inhibiting activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes like cyclo-oxygenase 2 (COX-2), and by preventing overproduction of nitric oxide in situations where it could increase the likelihood of excessive inflammation.

ANTI-CANCER BENEFITS

Research on the anti-cancer benefits of cucumber is still in its preliminary stage and has been restricted thus far to lab and animal studies. Interestingly, however, many pharmaceutical companies are actively studying one group of compounds found in cucumber—called cucurbitacins—in the hope that their research may lead to development of new anti-cancer drugs. Cucurbitacins belong to a large family of phytonutrients called triterpenes. Cucurbitacins A, B, C, D and E have all been identified within fresh cucumber. Researchers have determined that several different signaling pathways (for example, the JAK-STAT and MAPK pathways) required for cancer cell development and cancer cell survival can be blocked by activity of cucurbitacins. Eventually, we expect to see human studies that confirm the anti-cancer benefits of cucumbers when consumed in a normal, everyday meal plan.

A second group of cucumber phytonutrients known to provide anti-cancer benefits are its lignans. The lignans pinoresinol, lariciresinol, and secoisolariciresinol have all been identified within cucumber. Interestingly, the role of these plant lignans in cancer protection involves the role of bacteria in our digestive tract. When we consume plant lignans like those found in cucumber, bacteria in our digestive tract take hold of these lignans and convert them into enterolignans like enterodiol and enterolactone. Enterolignans have the ability to bind onto estrogen receptors and can have both pro-estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects. Reduced risk of estrogen-related cancers, including cancers of the breast, ovary, uterus, and prostate has been associated with intake of dietary lignans from plant foods like cucumber.

Source: http://www.livestrong.com/article/317043-health-benefit-of-eating-cucumbers/

And here’s a great little list of 13 Uses For Cucumbers by Matt Agorist, at REALfarmacy.com…

Cucumbers are very easy to grow and make for a delicious treat. But did you know they can prevent hangovers, or clean the kitchen sink? Below is a list of tips and tricks you can do with cucumbers that you do not want to miss!

1. Cucumbers contain most of the vitamins you need every day, just one cucumber contains Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc.

2. Feeling tired in the afternoon? Put down the caffeinated soda and pick up a cucumber. Cucumbers are a good source of B Vitamins and carbohydrates that can provide that quick pick-me-up that can last for hours.

3. Tired of your bathroom mirror fogging up after a shower? Try rubbing a cucumber slice along the mirror, it will eliminate the fog and provide a soothing, spa-like fragrance.

4. Are grubs and slugs ruining your planting beds? Place a few slices in a small pie tin and your garden will be free of pests all season long. The chemicals in the cucumber react with the aluminum to give off a scent undetectable to humans but drive garden pests crazy and make them flee the area.

5. Looking for a fast and easy way to remove cellulite before going out or to the pool? Try rubbing a slice or two of cucumbers along your problem area for a few minutes, the phytochemical in the cucumber cause the collagen in your skin to tighten, firming up the outer layer and reducing the visibility of cellulite. Works great on wrinkles too!!!

6. Want to avoid a hangover or terrible headache? Eat a few cucumber slices before going to bed and wake up refreshed and headache free. Cucumbers contain enough sugar, B vitamins and electrolytes to replenish essential nutrients the body lost, keeping everything in equilibrium, avoiding both a hangover and headache!

7. Looking to fight off that afternoon or evening snacking binge? Cucumbers have been used for centuries and often used by European trappers, traders and explores for quick meals to thwart off starvation.

8. Have an important meeting or job interview and you realize that you don’t have enough time to polish your shoes? Rub a freshly cut cucumber over the shoe, its chemicals will provide a quick and durable shine that not only looks great but also repels water.

9. Out of WD 40 and need to fix a squeaky hinge? Take a cucumber slice and rub it along the problematic hinge, and voila, the squeak is gone!

10. Stressed out and don’t have time for a massage, facial or visit to the spa? Cut up an entire cucumber and place it in a boiling pot of water, the chemicals and nutrients from the cucumber will react with the boiling water and released in the steam, creating a soothing, relaxing aroma that has been shown to reduce stress in new mothers and college students during final exams.

11. Just finish a business lunch and realize you don’t have gum or mints? Take a slice of cucumber and press it to the roof of your mouth with your tongue for 30 seconds to eliminate bad breath; the photochemical will kill the bacteria in your mouth responsible for causing bad breath.

12. Looking for a ‘green’ way to clean your faucets, sinks or stainless steel? Take a slice of cucumber and rub it on the surface you want to clean, not only will it remove years of tarnish and bring back the shine, but it won’t leave streaks and won’t harm you fingers or fingernails while you clean.

13. Using a pen and made a mistake? Take the outside of the cucumber and slowly use it to erase the pen writing; also works great on crayons and markers that the kids have used to decorate the walls!

And check out this great little recipe for fat flush water that uses cucumber:

Fat Flush Water And Fat Flush Tea

Here’s to a healthier you in 2022!

p.s. Be sure to subscribe to Self-help Health so you don’t miss any future posts, and check out my website’s To Your Health page.

Great 4-Minute Exercise Routine + A Facelift?! Yes, Please!

Several years ago I featured an article by Dr. Mercola on the Nitric Oxide Dump routine and it has become one of the more frequently viewed posts, so I thought it might be of interest to a number of you to know about this simplified version I just found out about recently that I’m really enjoying, because it’s so easy to learn and quick to do, plus gives your body a workout where you end up feeling pooped and energized at the same time. HA!

And while you’re catching your breath from one of your 4-minute workout sessions, you can do the JSJ routine for cleaning, tightening and rejuvenating the skin. So in less than half an hour you can really have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being. How does it get any better than that?!

4-MINUTE AT-HOME WORKOUT FOR WHEN YOU CAN’T GET TO THE GYM OR NEED A LIFT

For the past two months, I’ve been testing a four-minute workout routine that promised to give the same benefits as if I’d worked out in the gym for an hour. Created by Dr. Zach Bush, it’s a new version of high-intensity interval training (HIIT). The three-to-four-minute workout consists of four basic exercises — squats, tin soldiers, snow angel and military press— which work all 16 major muscle groups. It takes about 4 minutes and I try to do it 3 times a day; on very busy “out-and-about” days, as little as once or twice.

It’s designed to stimulate the release of nitric oxide, which is actually a soluble gas and free radical stored in the lining or endothelium of your blood vessels that can catalyze and promote health.

The results have been impressive. I’ve gotten quite a bit leaner, developed muscle and strength, and lost about 5 pounds, which I’ve kept off easily (no mean feat for my aging self).  Normally, if I go a day without doing my usual 45-minute exercise routine, I start to gain weight;  if I can’t do my regular exercise, I can easily do this routine at home.

The simple routine is easy to do during my day and has proven an energizing break while working; I feel the effect immediately. It’s best to wait at least two hours between sessions, to allow the body to synthesize nitric oxide for subsequent release. ( I put a little sign up on my fridge, and sometimes set a timer, to remind myself to do a session). And for best results, I breath through the nose, not mouth. Over time, as the sequence has gotten easier to do, I’ve added more reps to keep myself challenged.

You can read all about how it works here at Mercola.com. I recommend following Zach Bush’s video at the top of the page as Dr. Mercola, whose info can be excellent, often take things to an extreme. I find his version pushes too hard.

Note: Wary of squats and of pushing too hard, too fast, I took the workout slowly the first few times, listening to how my body was handling it, and gradually increasing the intensity. Listen, listen, listen to your body…

Source: https://improvisedlife.com/2019/03/26/4-minute-at-home-workout-for-when-you-cant-get-to-the-gym-or-need-a-lift/

UPDATE 1/11/22: Need  further motivation to give the routine a try? Check out this 2 min. video of an interview where Dr Bush is asked about this quick, yet highly effective work-out…

Related Self-help Health post: Nitric Oxide Dump

BTW, Dr Zach Bush is one of the most knowledgeable, well-spoken natural health advocates I’ve come across and has given some great interviews on GMOs, and  glyphosate (among other things) and how they are tied to inflammation, leaky gut, autism and so much more. They’re actually worse for our health than I ever imagined. I highly recommend checking out his website and education resources. Here’s just one of the interviews I’ve watched: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=5&v=jWgnkgYtqnw&feature=emb_logo

And now on to the facelift! Here’s an easy to learn Jin Shin Jyutsu flow/hold from Astrid at FlowsForLife.com that has multiple benefits and uses, including rejuvenating the skin ….

Regenerating for the Deep Skin

Imagine if you had your own personal ‘plastic surgeon’?

Well, I am here to tell you that you have a special energy function that helps clean, rejuvenate and tighten the skin.

This is Jin Shin Jyutsu for a facelift!

There is a special energy function that helps regulate the temperature in your body. It also relaxes the muscles in the body, and circulates to clean, purify, and regenerate the deep skin.

All you have to ‘do’ is palm the backs of your calf muscles on the lower legs daily for a magic effect!

I have a friend who practices this hold every morning because she wakes up feeling a bit tight and stiff . She was delighted when I said to her: “No wonder you look so vibrant and so much younger than your age.”

Hold 20 minutes every day for two weeks, and you might find that your friends start wondering what you’ve been doing because you look so good.

Sunburn gone!

A few years ago, I went to the beach on a sunny day. I came home and realized I was quite sunburned. My skin felt tight and very uncomfortable. I decided to put this exercise to the test.

Instead of getting lots of lotions to put on my skin, I practiced the Jin Shin Jyutsu self help exercise below.

I was amazed that, after a few minutes, all the discomfort just melted away. There’s no other way to describe it. Also, the redness and heat dissipated, and I didn’t peel. It was quite extraordinary.

Hot hot hot!

This Jin Shin Jyutsu exercise is also great if your body gets really hot. Because this special energy travels up and down the whole body, it helps cool it! So we all have a natural built-in air-conditioning system. It’s so clever.

Jin Shin Jyutsu for a facelift

Cross your arms. Place the palm of your RIGHT hand (with fingers facing down towards your feet) on the LEFT calf (the fleshy part at the back of the  leg below the knee). Do the same for the palm of the LEFT hand on the RIGHT calf.

If you’re working on someone else, lie them face up and stand at their feet facing their head.

Then place your LEFT palm on their RIGHT calf muscles, fingers facing up towards their head, and your RIGHT palm on their LEFT calf, fingers facing up towards their head.

So when you work on yourself, you cross your arms. When you work on someone else, you don’t.

Note: if you find it difficult to hold this position for a while, try lying on your side. Or just shorten the sessions but do them more often. The time I share with you is a guide. However, the more you do, the more effective this exercise will be!

Simple and effective. But don’t take my word for it. As Mary Burmeister says, “Be your own testimony.”

Source: https://www.flowsforlife.com/magic-exercise-jin-shin-jyutsu-facelift/

See also: Self Help Hold for the Skin Surface

Salud!

p.s. Be sure to subscribe to Self-help Health so you don’t miss any future posts, and tell your friends to do the same. Also check out my website’s To Your Health page and Evolution Made Easier blog for more helpful health tips, tools and information.

Disclaimer: Please note that any information here is provided as a guideline only, and is not meant to substitute for the advice of your physician, nutritionist, trained healthcare practitioner, and/or inner guidance system. Always consult a professional/your inner knowing before undertaking any change to your normal health routine.

Stress Relief & Immune Support On-line Seminar

 

Here’s another free resource you may want to check out. I have never been to Prama Wellness Center, but a friend of mine has been there several times and loves the staff and quality of information and expertise….

 

Are you STRESSED OUT??? Join us for this valuable on-line seminar with Dr. Sid Jordan and Ramesh Bjonnes of the Prama Wellness Center and co-hosted by Red Wing Enterprises, Saturday, 10 AM to 12:30 PM ET on a natural approach through diet, yoga, meditation, compassionate communication, and juice cleansing. Free or suggested donation!

In these days of the COVID-19 pandemic, we hear the same message from MDs as well as natural health practitioners: Now is the time to prioritize preventive health, both physically and mentally.

In this one-day online program, we at the Prama Wellness Center will share some effective tools to help strengthen our physical and psychological immune systems so that we can build resiliency in dealing with the stress and uncertainty we now are facing.

This online seminar will cover the following topics:

Tools to strengthen our physical immune system
with Ramesh Bjonnes, Director of the Prama Wellness Center

Now is definitely not the time to burn the candle at both ends. Rather, now is the time to do our workouts, eat a nutrient dense diet, take preventive herbs and vitamins as well as practice yoga and meditation. We can do that by following a few simple guidelines at home.

Topics to be covered in this workshop include:

Meditation for better immunity
Diet to strengthen the immune system response
Herbs to strengthen nerves, improve digestion and boost the immune system
Intermittent fasting tips to build stamina and immunity

Tools for Psychological Immunity during the Coronavirus Crisis
with Dr. Sid Jordan, Psychologist and Co-founder of the Prama Institute

This workshop will focus on the social support and stress management we all need during this crisis.

Practicing “distant socializing” can ameliorate the social isolation induced by “social distancing”. In times of crisis, our efforts to observe sound physical care guidelines and strengthen social ties can be deepened during this social lock down.

We all have to hit the reset button to find a new normal for work (or unemployment) and a balance in self-care and care of others. Let’s seek this new balance together by building psychological immunity through positive thoughts, words and actions.

Self-Care tools to be covered in the workshop:

How to slow down and take deep breaths
How to meditate on and off the mat
How to define and confront obstacles and fears
How to care for Self and Others
How to stay in touch with family and friends
How to listen attentively with your heart to yourself and others
How to make loving requests to family and friends related to your needs

You can sign up on Prama’s Facebook page here. Just scroll down a couple of posts until you see the notice about the seminar.

 

Salud!

p.s. Be sure to subscribe to Self-help Health so you don’t miss any future posts, and tell your friends to do the same. Also check out my website’s To Your Health page and Evolution Made Easier blog for more helpful health tips, tools and information.

Disclaimer: Please note that any information here is provided as a guideline only, and is not meant to substitute for the advice of your physician, nutritionist, trained healthcare practitioner, and/or inner guidance system. Always consult a professional/your inner knowing before undertaking any change to your normal health routine.

Easy Liver Cleanse Tonic

 

This morning I received a newsletter from Ross Bridgeford at LiveEnergized.com with the following recipe to help detoxify the liver, and I happened to think that right now might be a great time for many people to do a full-out cleanse, since you need a couple of days when you can stay home and lay low and that’s actually the norm right now. But if you’re not ready to go that route and want something less stringent, this recipe sounds like it will be a good way to give your liver function a boost. I plan to give it a try soon myself, especially since I haven’t done a formal cleanse in quite awhile…..

 

When your liver is stressed it affects every area of your health…

But this simple, delicious recipe works so quickly, and so effectively, it can be a huge helping hand…because…

The bottom line is this: you cannot achieve vibrant health with a tired, overworked, out-of-balance liver.

It’s too important and it does too much!

Your liver: cleanses and filters your blood, stores and releases glucose (tired? it could be your liver), removes toxins, metabolizes fat, makes proteins, produces critical hormones and so much more…

Right now, and this could be essential, your liver also fights infections by making immune factors and removing bacteria from the bloodstream…

This recipe is a great start…

It will immediately get to work to support your liver and give you a huge boost.

I have supercharged it with some of the most powerful liver-nourishing ingredients and the combination of nutrients from the garlic, ginger, grapefruit, lemon and oils heals, soothes and detoxifies the liver…

And the taste is refreshing and delicious too!

Liver Cleansing Tonic

Serves 2

Ingredients:

2 large grapefruits
4 lemons
300 ml of filtered water
2 tablespoons of cold-pressed flax oil
1 clove of fresh garlic
2 inches of fresh root ginger
A dash of cayenne pepper!

Directions:

• Squeeze the juice of the grapefruit and lemon into a blender
• Next, grate the garlic and the ginger, and then using a garlic press, squeeze this into the juice
• Now add the water, plant-based omega oil and blend for 30 seconds (and add more ginger/garlic to taste)

Why This Recipe Works:

Garlic: contains numerous sulfur-containing compounds that are known to activate the liver enzymes responsible for expelling toxins from the body. Another lies in the presence of both allicin and selenium, two important nutrients that play an integral role in the protection of the liver from damage.

Garlic is also proven to activate cells that specifically protect us from liver cancer, and also to lower cholesterol, prevent fatty liver and so much more.

Ginger: has also shown remarkable abilities to prevent liver damage, scarring and prevent fibroids as well as fatty liver.

Grapefruit: Phytonutrients in grapefruit called limonoids prevent tumor formation by promoting the production of one of the master antioxidants: glutathione-S-transferase.

This detoxifying enzyme ignites a reaction in the liver that helps to make toxic compounds easier to remove from body, protecting the liver (and kidneys) in the process.

Lemons: while also containing the limonoids mentioned above, lemons also supports liver function by strengthening liver enzymes, regulating blood carbohydrate levels and serving as the basis for new enzyme creation.

Omega 3: strongly proven to prevent fatty liver and liver disease, omega 3 is also powerfully anti-inflammatory and helps prevent toxic buildup, thus removing a lot of stress on the liver too.

These delicious, liver-cleansing ingredients will leave you feeling invigorated and your liver feeling nourished and loved.

I urge you to give it a go, and for more delicious cleansing recipes and my full cleanse protocol, check out The Alkaline Reset Cleanse.

Enjoy!

Ross

Related Self-help Health posts:

Keeping the Liver & Gall Bladder Healthy

Cleansing the Liver & Gall Bladder Part I

UPDATE 5/10/21: Just found out about this easy routine from Donna Eden for helping cleanse and detox the liver and gall bladder…

 

Salud!

p.s. Be sure to subscribe to Self-help Health so you don’t miss any future posts, and tell your friends to do the same. Also check out my website’s To Your Health page and Evolution Made Easier blog for more helpful health tips, tools and information.

Disclaimer: Please note that any information here is provided as a guideline only, and is not meant to substitute for the advice of your physician, nutritionist, trained healthcare practitioner, and/or inner guidance system. Always consult a professional/your inner knowing before undertaking any change to your normal health routine.

Acupressure Videos For Ear Massage, Detoxification/Decongestion & Immunity Building

 

Just got an e-mail I’m sharing below from Michael Reed Gach, PhD at Acupressure. com that contained several DIY routines that would be especially beneficial to put into practice during the current health situation when anything that supports conscious well-being is so important. The processes are simple, easy, and free….the trifecta of self-help tools, as far as I’m concerned. I felt better just watching the first two videos. Imagine what it will be like when I actually practicing the routines, plus finish watching video 3! 🙂

Hi Acupressure Friends,

I hope you’re focusing on keeping yourself healthy during this world-wide coronavirus health crisis by getting daily exercise, eating healthy food, less saturated fat, less sugar, good protein and more greens.

I have found great benefits from giving myself Ear Massages throughout the day. I’m leaving you a link to this instructional Ear Massage video to support you at this challenging time.

Click here to go to the Ear Massage Video

Learn the Detox Acupressure Point Lv3 for relieving allergic reactions, for liver balancing, detoxification, and decongestion by using this link:

Click here to go to the Detox Acupressure Point Video

I’m also listing an Acupressure Immune Boosting Video at the end of this email for keeping your resistance strong. Please review it and share the Immune Boosting Video link with people in your community.

Explore Acupressure.com if you want to learn more Acupressure.

P.S. Here’s my recent Immune Boosting Video for you.

Related Self-help Health post:

Spirit Gate: Shen Men, Heart 7

Feeling Stressed? Rub Your Ears

 

Salud!

p.s. Be sure to subscribe to Self-help Health so you don’t miss any future posts, and tell your friends to do the same. Also check out my website’s To Your Health page and Evolution Made Easier blog for more helpful health tips, tools and information.

Disclaimer: Please note that any information here is provided as a guideline only, and is not meant to substitute for the advice of your physician, nutritionist, trained healthcare practitioner, and/or inner guidance system. Always consult a professional/your inner knowing before undertaking any change to your normal health routine.

 

 

An Interesting Link To Osteoporosis That May Be Hiding In Your Toothbrush + Plus Healing Coconut Curry Soup Recipe

 

Wow, I knew that triclosan was bad, but usually thought of it as being mainly in hand sanitizers and the like. Didn’t know it could be lurking in so many different places AND could be contributing to osteoporosis! 

 

There’s a pretty good chance that you’re brushing your teeth with a chemical known to cause allergies, thyroid problems, muscle spasms and resistance to antibiotics, among other things.

It took the FDA 36 years to get this chemical out of our soaps and hand sanitizers. But it has remained in other products since then, including toothpaste, shampoo, and skin cream.

Many children’s toys and kitchen utensils are coated in this chemical, presumably to make them resistant to germs.

But study after study continues to show us that this chemical is far scarier than the germ it’s meant to protect us from.

And, most recently, for the first time, it’s been linked to osteoporosis.

Triclosan: Bad for germs, worse for your health

If you grew up in the 1960s like I did, you probably remember hearing the very same commercials telling us how these new products were superior at keeping scary germs away.

In the years that followed, we slowly learned the truth about their celebrated antimicrobial chemical ingredient, known as triclosan.

Study after study showed what it could do to the human body: disrupt hormones, cause muscle and heart spasms, and do damage to unborn fetuses.

In 1978, the FDA first proposed a rule that would eliminate triclosan from soaps and hand sanitizers. But in their usual fashion, the agency did not follow through with their own proposal, and triclosan stayed on the market.

In 2010, 32 years later, the Natural Resources Defense Council sued the FDA for failing to issue a final ruling on triclosan.

Finally, in 2016, the FDA banned the use of triclosan in antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers.

Sadly, in those decades in between, the market for antibacterial products with triclosan had grown into a $1 billion a year industry. Triclosan made its way into the bodies of 75 percent of the U.S. population and has been found in blood, urine, and breast milk.

Also, in those intervening years, research has continued to demonstrate just how harmful triclosan is.

Triclosan and osteoporosis

Last month, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism published a study linking triclosan with osteoporosis. It was the first study to look at the connection between levels of triclosan in the urine and decreased bone mass density in women.

The study looked at data from 1,848 women between 2005 and 2010 and found that women who had higher levels of triclosan in their urine were more likely to develop osteoporosis later on in life.

Triclosan interferes with thyroid function, and there is a known connection between thyroid imbalance and bone loss.

Here’s a chronology of other research showing the harmful effects of triclosan:

• 2010 – triclosan inhibits the activity of estradiol, a form of estrogen, thus endangering early fetal development. Also, of course, depleted estrogen leads to bone loss.
• 2012 – triclosan disrupts the endocrine systems of several different animals.
• 2012 – triclosan impairs normal muscle function in mice and humans.
• 2014 – a small study linked triclosan to liver cancer in mice.

How you are exposed, and how to protect yourself

Check product ingredients. And know what to look for…

Any product labeled as containing Microban actually contains triclosan. These include everything from kitchen utensils to carpeting to toothbrushes.

And if you use a toothpaste with triclosan, you’re doubling your risk.

In a 2017 study, more than a third of nylon toothbrushes tested retained about seven to 12.5 times the amount of triclosan a person would actually come into contact with from toothpaste. What’s more, the triclosan stayed in the bristles for about two weeks after switching to a non-triclosan toothpaste. So, it’s a good idea when you switch out your toothpaste, to get a new toothbrush as well.

Here are some ways to avoid triclosan:

• Stop using antibacterial soaps containing the chemical. Look for “triclosan” on the Drug Facts label.
• Look for triclosan in kitchen equipment like cutting boards and spatulas.
• Ask your workplace and your children’s school to stop using antibacterial hand soaps. Instead, suggest soaps with oregano oil or basil oil, both potent natural antibacterial agents.
• Avoid products like food containers or shower curtains that claim to “keep food fresh longer” or have “odor-fighting ingredients.” They usually don’t list their ingredients, but chances are there’s triclosan in there.

Source: https://easyhealthoptions.com/daily-triclosan-chemical-osteoporosis/

Here’s a link to an Orawellness article on making DIY remineralizing toothpaste. They make a great triclosan-free Healthy Mouth Brushing Blend and offer health-promoting Bass toothbrushes, as well.

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A yummy-sounding recipe from Dr Jockers newsletter….

This coconut curry soup was created by certified health coach Melissa Nohr, who does nutrition coaching with people all over the world via Skype and at Exodus Health Center.  Check out her coaching page here and enjoy this coconut curry soup recipe!

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Coconut Curry Soup

prep time: 10 min   cook time: 30

source: drjockers.com

yield: 4 – 6 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin coconut oil
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp. fresh grated ginger
• 2 (13½-ounce) cans full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup chopped cauliflower
• 1 cup chopped kale leaves
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon pink salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

Step #1:  In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the coconut oil. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger and sauté until tender.

Step #2:  Add the coconut milk, broth, cauliflower, kale, curry powder, turmeric, and salt and stir until well combined. Raise the heat to medium and cook, stirring often, for 10 minutes.

Step #3:  Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring often, for 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the meat, if using.

Step #4:  Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the cilantro. Serve immediately.

Notes: This is an easy, versatile soup. You can add cooked, chopped chicken for extra protein. Other vegetables, such as broccoli and mushrooms, can be added or substituted as desired.

 

Dr Jockers Comments:This coconut curry soup is a warm savory dish that tastes wonderful and has a great aroma that will fill up the whole house.  It is full of healthy fats and micronutrients that help the body to cleanse and detoxify and is easy on the digestive system.

This is a low-carb, plant-based ketogenic recipe that is loaded with anti-inflammatory polyphenolic compounds with the turmeric, green leafy veggies, ginger, onion and garlic. When these compounds marinate into a soup recipe like this, the hard outer fibers are broken down which reduces stress on our digestive tracts and the pure nutrients become more bioavailable.

If you want to increase the protein content, you are welcome to add in some free-range chicken, wild-caught fish or grass-fed beef.  You could even add in a few raw eggs and the heat of the soup will cook some of the proteins making it similar to an “egg-drop” soup like texture.  Also, feel free to add in more veggies to your desire.

Our Cancer Cleanse program uses a plant-based ketogenic diet approach that is high in healthy fats, micronutrients, anti-oxidant compounds and fiber while being low in carbohydrates and protein.  This recipe is a staple one we use for this program to help provide a foundational lifestyle for preventing or healing cancer. – Dr Jockers

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And here’s your chance to catch the encore presentation of Sayer Ji’s Regenerate Yourself Masterclass, plus a Q & A that follows…

You can sign up here.

 

Salud!

p.s. Be sure to subscribe to Self-help Health so you don’t miss any future posts, and tell your friends to do the same. Also check out my website’s To Your Health page and Evolution Made Easier blog for more helpful health tips, tools and information. 

Disclaimer: Please note that any information here is provided as a guideline only, and is not meant to substitute for the advice of your physician, nutritionist, trained health care practitioner, and/or inner guidance system. Always consult a professional before undertaking any change to your normal health routine.

Jin Shin Jyutsu For Stiff Neck & Shoulder Pain, Eyes, Detoxification, Arthritis & More + Free 21- Day Perfect Health Series

Oh, I’m so excited to give this new (to me) Jin Shin Jyutsu hold/flow a try. Like the other ones I’ve posted about here, it’s simple, easy to do and helps with multiple things (eyes, neck & shoulder pain, detoxification, osteoporosis, etc)….

A pain in the neck

Using Jin Shin Jyutsu, the neck and shoulders can be released relatively quickly.

It’s about how the energy travels in the body

This is because we all have an energy pathway that crosses the shoulders and hips, traveling up and down the arms into the middle fingers and also traveling up and down the legs doing kind of a “loop de loop” all over the body. This energy also goes round the head and around the chest.

This simple self help exercise does so much

This little gem of a self help hold that I learned and often use, does many things as it
* eases a stiff neck and shoulder pain
* alleviates pain down the arm, in the elbow, in the hand & fingers
* detoxes the body
* helps protect the body against osteoporosis
* eases aches and pains in the body (also fibromyalgia)
* lubricates the joints (so good for knee pain, elbow pain)
* and even helps with all arthritic “projects”/problems
* helps the skeletal structure
* helps the eyes

A gem of a hold

Place left hand over left shoulder and right hand on the left elbow crease. For the other side, place right hand over right shoulder and left hand on the right elbow crease.

Do this self help hold every day for a few minutes to ‘clean’, and within a short time you’ll definitely notice a difference in your neck and shoulders.

If you are working on a project/issue like fibromyalgia, then hold for a minimum of 20 minutes each side or until there is relief.

If you find it difficult to do the side that is tense or uncomfortable, start by working on the other side. So, say the right shoulder and neck hurts. Do the exercise on the left side until you can comfortably do the hold on the right side.

This is one of my absolute favorite holds because it is so simple, yet helps so much! I have used it  many times on myself and in my practice.

In this video, Astrid explains the exercise (actual instructions about the hold start around the 3 minute mark)

Source: https://www.flowsforlife.com/self-help-stiff-neck-shoulder-pain/

You might also like to check out Astrid’s Hands on Self help Mini eCourse and/or her free download self-help guide.

Related Self-help Health posts: Jin Shin Jyutsu  and Prime Mover

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Also, I just found out yesterday that Deepak Chopra and Oprah Winfrey (or “Deeprah” as I like to refer to them :-)) are offering another one of their free 21-day meditation series, and this time the topic/focus is Perfect Health. I always enjoy their series and this one is sure to be filled with lots of wisdom about how to create and maintain conscious well-being. Plus, meditating in and of itself is a great health aid, and Deepak’s voice is so soothing and relaxing to listen to, so I’m definitely looking forward to Feb 3rd . 🙂

You can sign-up here: https://chopracentermeditation.com

  Salud!

p.s. Be sure to give Self-help Health a follow so you don’t miss out on any future posts. Also check out the To Your Health page at my website Evolution Made Easier and my other blog for more helpful information, tips, tools and resources.

Disclaimer: Please note that any information here is provided as a guideline only, and is not meant to substitute for the advice of your physician, nutritionist, trained healthcare practitioner, and/or inner guidance system. Always consult a professional before undertaking any change to your normal health routine.

You Really SHOULD Be Using Calcium Bentonite Clay!

I’ve done several posts about using  triple-swelling calcium bentonite clay and, if you have never used it as a self-help health aid, you’re really missing out. It has so many uses and benefits I think every household should have some on hand. I’ve put together some of the testimonials I’ve received from being on Perry Arledge’s mailing list (she has a new website that offers very high quality clay at  https://www.headtotoeproducts.com and used to offer free seminars on working with clay and is a real expert in the field) to help convince you to give it a try. It really IS amazing what working with this special clay can help with health-wise!

You can use it internally, externally, on your kids, your pet, your garden and more…..

13 Year Illness Gone After A Month On Clay

I am turning 25 in just a few days and have been taking the clay internally three times a day for a month now. I have been sick on and off for 13 years and the traditional doctors could never find a cure for me. I had just accepted that I had a sickly body and a weak immune system. I had bald spots and began fainting at the age of 12, then at 20 I became nauseous all of the time. When I graduated from college, I was so sick that I needed to take some time off before obtaining my masters degree. I began researching different ways to detoxify my body. I started getting colonics, bought an infrared sauna, and eating raw food. But it was only when I started drinking a Calcium Bentonite clay that I started feeling like a normal human being for the first time in 13 years!!! After 3 weeks, I had an energy surge. I started wanting to do things I hadn’t wanted to do in a long, long time…simple things like take a hike with my family. This clay has given me back my passion to live my life to the fullest. Before the clay, I was sick, exhausted, and depressed. Now, I feel alive! People are even saying how good my skin looks! Like I have a glow!! I will, without a doubt, be a lifelong customer. Anytime I have any questions, I just call Perry A. and she answers my calls directly and with such kindness and grace. This clay truly saved my life.

Cat Tumors Disappear with Clay

This summer I participated in one of your teleseminars and submitted a question about whether the clay could heal the large (cancerous-looking) bleeding tumor on my cat’s tail.   When the vet shaved it, it looked like a rotten potato attached to his tail –much bigger than his actual tail, so it could not be removed – so the only thing they could offer was amputation.  Well I did not want to do that unless it meant life or death and there were absolutely no other options, so I started using the clay in the meantime just to stop the messy bleeding.

Well, long story short, my cat cooperated well with me applying the clay and it really helped stop the bleeding.  However, in time an oozing hole developed where the bleeding used to be.  I kept that hole packed with clay, and within an incredibly short time the entire huge tumor had just melted away.  The hole is gone now, there is just a tiny bump left that I can feel at this point.  I continue to apply the clay and will do so until there is no hint anything left but his beautiful tail.  Although my cat was never sick from this, he was acting rather old and depressed, but now he has the energy of a kitten again.

I gave a co-worker a small jar of clay for the same purpose as her cat also had a VERY large tumor on its neck. When I checked back last week, she said her cat’s tumor had completely dissolved and was in fact also completely gone!

For both these cats, the vets had no treatments other than risky or disfiguring surgery with no guarantees.  I am so glad that I had already purchased the clay for some other reason I can’t even remember. I plan to start using it more diligently to improve my health and also the more difficult to treat problem my other cat has with sinus infection and gum irritation.  Thanks so much for helping spread the miracle.  We are ALL so very grateful!!!

Gardening With Clay

I had horrific tomato plants full of psyllid nymphs and cucumbers not doing too well.
I have powdered my plants on March 1st and I can’t see any psyllid anymore and cucumbers are looking okay.

On March 2nd I have powdered carrots, leeks, beetroot with clay, as they had rust.
As per today March 22^nd,  they all are looking good. My Chicory Witloof has got outside leaves rotting so powdered with clay and 3 days ago still had to get rid of wilting leaves, whether the rotting had started before I sprayed and needs longer to stop the process, I don’t know???

All still needs more observation for longer, but sounds good. I took a plastic jar, opened the lid and drilled holes from inside out and I just shake it. It uses a lot of clay and as I have a very cheap source for gardening…whether to put less clay would work might as well? All experimental.

Clay expert Perry A~’s note:  When preparing garden soil mix or potting soil mix, add a generous handful for pots and much more for beds and mix in well.  Plants will grow faster, healthier, with hardy blooms.  It will kick booty on sandy loam non-clay soils.  Not for acid loving plants

Liver Flukes 

I have been having some pain in my upper stomach all the way down to the pelvis area (clearly my gastro system).  What is interesting is that, like you said, the liquid clay will remove parasites.  Well… after several days of 2 oz 2x day and lots of distilled water with lemon, I have had at least 4 bowel movements containing clearly visible organisms that appear to be Liver Fluke parasites.  After that. my pain went away.

Constipated Cat

I did as you suggested, and simply increased the amount of hydrated clay
I mixed 11 year old cats canned food. Tremendous difference! Big nicely formed
‘tootsie  rolls’ two days in a row, and no more vomit. The clay was all it
took. Her energy is way up. A wild ‘bush bunny’ racing around the house!

Stomach Ulcers and Gall Bladder

I just read the book on clay by Perry A~, even read it to my husband, who has frequent episodes of gastric distress from an ulcer. We decided to give clay a try, the next time he had a problem, I gave 2 oz. to him. His problem resolved within moments, to our great relief. Then, a few nights ago, I ate more greasy food than I should have.  I had my gall bladder removed several years, and the doctor told me to go easy on fried foods.  It’s not usually a problem, since I eat very little fried foods.  When I overdo the greasy foods (which has only happened a few times!) I can hardly move for the horrible abdominal pain.  Well, after the success with my husband, as soon as I began to feel discomfort in my lower abdominal region, I decided to try a swig of the clay solution, too, and very shortly, no more discomfort! – Jo Ann A.

Teacher Notices Change after Autistic Child’s First Detox Bath

As a parent of a child affected by autism – I will try anything (safe) to help my son. I figured I’d give clay a try. Oh my goodness – the changes have been incredible! A few days after my son’s first detox bath his teacher asked me if I gave him a “speech pill”! I’m sure you could imagine my excitement.

I personally know the cost of trying to heal a child and when you find something that works, it’s just an incredible feeling. Again I’m just so thankful I was turned onto this product. Thank you for providing help to our children!!!! Have a beautiful day! – Anna W.

Periodontal Disease

I had periodontal disease with several #8 pockets a year ago. In Oct. of 2011, I started brushing with the dry Living Clay twice a day and at night packing those areas with the clay. At my last dental check-up I now have #4 pockets and healthy gums. He also said my teeth were very nice and white!! So happy with this clay. – Cindy P.

Disc Bulge Problem in Back

I have a disc bulge in my lower back and sacroiliitis…One day I had spent five hours in the yard raking and mulching. When I came in I could barely move: sitting, standing and moving from either position were extremely painful. This is typical of my condition. I had Living Clay prepared, but hadn’t used any yet. I took two ounces and ten minutes later, the pain was GONE. I felt fine the rest of the evening. I was stiff when I woke up in the morning and took two more ounces. I had no pain the rest of the day. Typically pain like I had that evening would have lasted at least a week and may have even caused me to miss that following day of work. I am amazed at the power of this product. -Dawn S.

Yellow Teeth

I have had a real problem with very yellow teeth. This is in part because my teeth are naturally not a bright white, but also because I refuse to put fluoride in my mouth, and I go through phases where I drink a lot of herbal tea. I keep my toothbrush soaking in H2O2 and have tried several kinds of homemade concoctions – usually baking soda-based. None had any impact on my yellow teeth. The other day I mixed some dry clay with some baking soda, added a wee bit of H2O2, vegetable glycerin, Stevia power, and essential oil of peppermint. The only real difference was the clay. After 3 days I noticed that my teeth were several shades whiter. I was so happy. I’m still using it and expecting even better results as time goes by.  – Chloie L.

Dental, Cavities, Mouth pH

The most impressive thing that happened to me with the clay dealt with my mouth.  Over the past several years, in spite of meticulously brushing and flossing my teeth, I have had an acidic PH in my mouth and many cavities.  Prior to beginning the clay, I had been diagnosed with 5 more cavities after only 6 months.  I had 3 of them taken care of and then I made an appointment to have the remaining 2 taken care of.

At the time of the first appointment, I had just begun to use the clay powder to brush my teeth (prior to bedtime) and tongue and then after I would rinse, I would put more clay powder on my brush and brush it all over my teeth and around the gum line and let it remain there.  Because of various circumstances, it was another month till I was able to go back to the dentist for my appointment.   When I went in, the dentist and the hygienist were both confused as they looked for the two cavities they were supposed to fill.  They could not find them.  I know that they were previously there because they had used the metal pick and I had felt where they poked into the holes.

I told the dentist about the clay and he said that the area must have re-mineralized.  They were both excited about it and they took down the information for the websites and I recommended Perry A~’s book to them.  I will definitely continue on tooth brushing with the clay as I enjoy stronger, healthier teeth which are also whiter looking.  Thank you for pointing out all the good uses of this product. – Donna J.

End-Stage Liver Disease & Hep C

Just wanted to share a wonderful clay testimony. My niece has End-Stage Liver Disease and is awaiting a liver transplant.

I had the clay sent to her four weeks ago. Her ammonia level was 157, and last week’s blood work showed a level of 93. Also, best news — her Hep C has become inactive during this time. The clay is the only thing she is doing different, so we totally attribute it to that and her strong faith and will to live.

She takes Clay baths twice a day — she covers her body with a Clay mask, allows to dry and then gets into a bath. The severe body itching has subsided. She also makes a poultice over her liver area with Clay and covers with the Miracle II Gel. Will keep you posted. – Elaine S.

Constant Diarrhea

In October 2016, I started to have pretty well constant diarrhea. Saw my GP (Australian name for a non specialist MD.) and she put me on various medications with zero results.
She went on holidays and I saw another GP. She took me off all medications, to see what would happen. Went on unabated and needed a colonoscopy. Then I remembered the clay.

I started to take liquid clay, 3-4 oz, 3 times a day and used hydrated clay on relevant areas, in early February 2017. The diarrhea stopped completely in one and a half days, never to return, and it is now April! Never had the colonoscopy.

I did however have a severe detox reaction, with beetroot red swollen glands under my armpits, so I put clay packs there as well and they too are now history.

PERSONAL NOTE: The part about the swollen glands reminds me of my own experience working with clay. I did the 21 day 3 times a day protocol and started feeling painful little lumps forming under the skin in my armpits, but didn’t really equate it to the clay until I upped the dose as given in the directions when dealing with more serious/long-standing conditions and that seemed to be too much for my body to handle fairly comfortably. The lumps rose to the surface and began oozing pus, with more lumps forming as others would be getting better. 

Not a fun or comfortable experience, to say the least, especially since it was the middle of summer when armpits are more prone to get sweaty. I stopped using the clay for awhile and it actually took several months before things started easing up. But I’ve had a number of health issues and a low level infection and congested lymph for years, so I’m sure that’s part of why I had such an extreme reaction. Even with other types of cleansing and detoxing I’d done, it was like the clay was the only thing that reached things at a deeper level that had been accumulating for a long time. The one good thing is the experience showed me how truly powerful using the clay can be.

FYI, the armpits (and groin) are major areas where lymph collects, so I think that’s why I had the reaction there. But I couldn’t understand why my left armpit was affected so much more than my right one, until I happened to read somewhere that, for some reason, the body naturally has a much greater percentage of lymph nodes and activity there than on the right-side. I’d never realized that before!

Also, if you plan on using the clay for detoxing baths, I highly recommend ordering from Even Better Now for 100% pure sodium bentonite clay, which has the highest cation exchange capacity of any bathing clay tested on the market. It is hypoallergenic and contains no excipients or fillers, and is free of bacteria, viruses, molds or yeasts, and easily disperses in water, with virtually no clumping. Unlike other bathing clays, EBN® Cleansing Clay can be safely rinsed down the drain, with no drain guards or special cleaning or clay dissolving agents required. 

p. s. The above testimonials I listed are just a few I’ve received by being on Perry A’s mailing list. She no longer offers the free webinars, but you can check out her archive of information and sign up to get on her mailing list at the bottom of the site she hosts. She also offers a book and if you end up using her archive or getting on her list, I highly recommend donating a little something to help her defray the cost of the great wealth of information she is offering to people for free.

http://www.bentoniteclayinfo.com/tips_archives.htm

You can refer back to the previous Self-help posts on bentonite clay for multiple ways to use it, but here’s a quick synopsis of the most common ones:

INTERNAL USE – For a single serving, mix 1 tsp of clay with 2 oz of high quality water; shake well and drink. Be sure to avoid using metal containers and measuring spoons when measuring, mixing or storing this liquid.

Multiple servings can be made at once and stored in an air-tight glass or plastic container. When stored properly, the clay will keep indefinitely. Keep out of close proximity to chemicals and strong odors.

FOR BATHS – Sprinkle 1 or more cups of clay into running bath water and stir to keep from clumping

TOPICAL USE – Mix 3 parts water to 1 part clay (use glass on plastic container only!); let stand until clay has fully set and apply as needed to skin, let dry, and then rinse clean. Can be used to sooth irritations, help wounds and burns when applied as a poultice.

Avoid contact with eyes. In the event that irritation occurs or continues, consult a health care practitioner.

Two of the related Self-help Health posts on clay:

The Healing Benefits of Clay

Clay Baths, Packs And More

Salud!

p.s. Be sure to subscribe to Self-help Health so you don’t miss any future posts, and tell your friends to do the same. Also check out my website’s To Your Health page and Evolution Made Easier blog for more helpful health tips, tools and information. 

Disclaimer: Please note that any information here is provided as a guideline only, and is not meant to substitute for the advice of your physician, nutritionist, trained health care practitioner, and/or inner guidance system. Always consult a professional before undertaking any change to your normal health routine.

+40 Plus Natural Cold And Flu Remedies

 

I thought this post from The Grow Network where they compiled comments from their readers about what they use for fighting or preventing colds and flu makes a great resource to have on hand. Always good to have that first-hand experience factor when something is recommended!

 

40+ Natural Cold and Flu Remedies

What are your most effective cold and flu remedies?

Cold or flu got you down? Our Community’s got you covered! Check out these great tips and tricks for treating (and preventing!) colds and flus naturally.

Silver

When it comes to fighting off colds and flu, several of you swear that silver is worth its weight in gold.

• Suz says, “Since flu starts in the gut, we take colloidal silver at the first symptoms: 5–6 ounces for adults over 170 pounds, 4 ounces for adults under 170 pounds, 3 ounces for those between 80–110 pounds, and start with 2 ounces for a child. After 90 mins, you should see a reduction in symptoms. Four hours after the first dose, take a second dose of equal amount. Six hours after the second dose, take a third dose of equal amount.” She says it will stop not only flu in its tracks, but also stomach viruses and food poisoning. Suz also suggests taking probiotics or eating yogurt the next day to help restore healthy gut bacteria.
• At the first sign of illness, Marly gargles with and swallows ASAP Smart Silver, and keeps it up all day while symptoms persist.
• Dsymons recommends snorting some colloidal/nano silver to help assuage a stuffy nose.
• Phil Tkachuk recommends 10ppm colloidal silver. He says you can either buy it, or make it yourself using The Silver Edge generator or Atlasnova generator.

Fire Cider/Four Thieves Tonic/Dragon’s Breath

Community members velaangels, Mark, Kathy, Brodo, and Rhonda all rely on homemade fire cider as a winter immune booster. Rhonda takes 1 shot per day throughout the winter for prevention, and also uses it to shorten the duration of the illness if she does catch a cold or the flu.

Loa uses Dragon’s Breath—which she says is similar to fire cider—daily during flu season. She works at a high school “around a LOT of sneezing, wheezing, coughing kids” and says she hasn’t had a cold or the flu in the 13 years since she started boosting her immune system with Dragon’s Breath. Here’s how she makes it: “I layer onions, garlic, horseradish, ginger, parsley, and cayenne peppers in a jar and cover with natural apple cider vinegar. I let it steep for about 6 weeks, then strain, add some powdered turmeric, and put the glass jar into the refrigerator. To use, I mix a tablespoon of the mixture with a tablespoon of honey added to a cup of warm water.”

Read More: “How to Make Fire Cider”

Teas, Tonics, and Tinctures

You offered our Community members some wonderful ideas for teas, tonics, and tinctures.

• Thomas Hodge makes an infusion with crushed Linden flowers and stems by adding 1/2 ounce of plant matter to a quart canning jar and then filling the jar with hot water. He seals it, lets it sit overnight, and strains it in the morning, squeezing the liquid from the linden. Then, he says, “chill it or drink it right away—8 ounces every 3 or 4 hours.”
• Val recommends a “flu tea” made with 1 teaspoon each of elderflower, mint, yarrow, and lemon juice. This makes 2 cups of tea. “The elderflower is anti-catarrhal and anti-inflammatory, the mint is diaphoretic (it increases bile, thereby helping to release toxins), and the yarrow increases sweating but lowers fevers. It is a pleasant-tasting tea.” Brodo makes a similar tea, but substitutes lemon balm for the mint and adds a spoonful of local, raw honey.
• Sunny makes a tea from dried elderberries, turmeric, freshly ground black pepper, and slices of fresh gingers, and drinks it all day long, usually mixed in with coffee or chai tea.
• peaveyplunker mixes together 3 cloves garlic, 1 tablespoon honey and 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and takes 1/2 teaspoon of the mixture every half hour until symptoms subside.
• Stephanie Lebron creates a tea with hot water and lemon juice, plus either ginger, rosemary essential oil, or lemon eucalyptus essential oil.
• w13jenjohnuses a homemade tincture of elderberry, licorice, and wild cherry bark, and also recommends a tea made with sage, lemon eucalyptus, and ginger, then sweetened with honey.
• Shrabonisays that a “ginger, pepper, and turmeric-powder decoction in a glass of warm water works wonders.”
• moncaivegan90boils 2 cups of water with a cinnamon stick, adds 1 cup of fresh red or purple bougainvillea flowers, turns off the heat, covers it for 2 minutes, and then strains it. “I like to add a spoonful of raw honey and enjoy 2 to 3 times a day. This works especially well for colds and coughs.”
• Yvette McLean makes a tea with mullein, peppermint, and lemongrass, and drinks it around the clock—hot or cold—for 2 to 3 days. She also uses the tea in the following recipe:5 cloves garlic
  2 Tbsp. sage (fresh or dried)
  2 Tbsp. oregano (fresh or dried)
  3 Tbsp. fresh ginger
  1 Tbsp. thyme (fresh or dried)
  1 Tbsp. rosemary (fresh or dried)
  2 Tbsp. honey
  2 whole lemons (including skin)
  2 c. mullein/peppermint/lemongrass tea, cooled Blend all ingredients together. Do not heat mixture. Take 1–2 ounces 3 times per day.“You will be better by the third day,” she says.

Oregano Oil

Several of you recommend using oregano oil to fight off colds and the flu. But do your research! Joy Deussen says, “Be careful with oregano oil. It is hot and will burn the inside of your mouth. I recommend you put it in a capsule and swallow for no discomfort.”

Vitamins

Increase your vitamin intake when you’re fighting off a cold or the flu.

• Sunny increases consumption of vitamin D.
• Stephanie Lebron says she takes 2000 mg of vitamin C every hour or so in the first 24 hours of feeling something coming on.
• Nance Shaw also takes vitamin A morning and night.

Elderberry

Take some form of elderberry for its immune-boosting properties.

• Along with taking homeopathic oscillococcinum and drinking a Linden infusion, Thomas Hodge takes a tablespoon of black elderberry extract before bed
• Denise takes 1 teaspoon of elderberry syrup every day during cold and flu season
• Scott Sexton takes elderberry syrup and/or tincture, plus recommends “Lots of water and rest. Meditation and yoga. And frequent sips of apple cider vinegar. I use essential oils, too. Oregano and the Thieves blend. Plus, I always add a citrus oil. Citrus oils are just happy, and I think they put me in a better mood, too.”

Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic are a favorite food when you’re dealing with colds and the flu.

• For air purification, Rebecca Potrafka leaves a cut-up onion sitting out in a glass dish. She also takes honey onion syrup for a scratchy throat.
• Susanne Lambert offers an interesting thought on using onions: “I’ve done some experiments with onions underfoot before bed with a pair of socks. I found that when I woke in the morning, my stuffy nose was gone.”
• Sunny adds raw or slightly roasted garlic cloves plus sautéed onions to meals.
• Michael Gray says that if he feels something coming on, he adds to his meals “a fresh clove of garlic, smashed, chopped fine, left out for 2 to 3 minutes” and says that he gets better faster than others who are sick at the same time but don’t take fresh garlic.
• Marjory is also a huge fan of using raw garlic as an immune booster when she’s fighting off a cold. She’ll chop up several cloves, let them sit for about 10 minutes, and swallow them straight. (Yes, we’ve seen her do this firsthand! 😉)

Over-the-Counter Remedies

Sometimes, the pharmacy is your friend. Our Community members recommended several over-the-counter products that help fight colds and the flu.

• Bonnie Camo and Thomas Hodge both recommend homeopathic oscillococcinum. Bonnie says it “usually cures colds or flu if taken in the first 24–48 hours. Available in most pharmacies and inexpensive.”
• Jill recommends cocolaurin. “It’s a natural supplement, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal. Very effective and safe.” (Cocolaurin is a super-concentrated form of monolaurin, which is distilled from coconut oil.)
• Several of our Community members take zinc when fighting off a cold or the flu. Nance Shaw recommends a dose morning and night, kathybelair52 sucks on zinc acetate lozenges at the first sign of cold, and Jill takes zinc in the form of Zicam. Sunny also occasionally uses Zarbee’s Nighttime Cough and Throat Relief drink mix, which contains zinc.
• Sunny also puts Plant Therapy Organic Immune Aid essential oil in the diffuser, under the nose, and on the soles of the feet.
• When TommyD feels something coming on, he takes 3 capsules of echinacea 3 times a day for a few days.
• Marius says colloidal silver usually helps him avoid the flu. However, “this year the flu strain was extremely potent, and it got me for the first time in 8 years. I cured it in about 2 days by ingesting hydrogen peroxide 3% In the next days, I rebuilt my intestinal flora—which could be damaged by hydrogen peroxide—by eating probiotics.”
• Among other things, Nance Shaw recommends soothing coughs at bedtime by putting Vick’s VapoRub on the arches of the feet.
• Several of you recommend using a neti pot during the sickness to help relieve symptoms. (Remember, though—the FDA recommends rinsing only with distilled, sterile, or previously boiled water, as tap water may contain harmful organisms that could actually make the problem worse.)

Encourage Fever

PInteaReed says, “If you are stricken with flu, make sure to help your fever. Wrap up in heavy blankets and try to keep the fever at 101°F to 102°F. Of course, if it goes higher, unwrap! Fever is what helps kill the viruses inside you. We just used this on this recent strain of really nasty flu that is going around. An hour after you wrap up, you should see a huge abatement of symptoms.”

Prevent It

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and our Community members offered some great suggestions for keeping colds and the flu at bay.

• TommyD says he can’t remember the last time he had the flu, and attributes part of his immune strength to cooking regularly with a spice mix of turmeric, freshly ground black pepper, ginger powder, and Ceylon cinnamon.
• Sandy Hines says neither she nor her husband have caught the flu or a cold in over 30 years. “If your
  body is alkaline, flu viruses and cold germs cannot live. Every night before bedtime, we have 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in a few inches of cool water.” They also eat about 2/3 cup of plain yogurt with a teaspoon of raw, unfiltered, local honey in it during the day; drink plenty of clean water, eat nutritiously; drink orange juice; and take 1,000 to 2,000 mg of vitamin C every day.
• Michael Gray helps prevent illness by taking a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and a teaspoon of honey mixed in warm water every day.
• Emily says she doesn’t catch colds or the flu, and attributes it to taking Citricidal brand grapefruit seed extract at least once per day. She adds, “I take up to 24 drops. Three is what the package says. Vitamin C is one reason it works so well, and that’s natural Vitamin C, not ‘ascorbic acid.’”
• Community member bobcarmenmertz has been taking homemade Golden Paste for more than 8 months and credits it for feeling well. “I did start to get a cold, but the severity and duration were greatly reduced. The paste includes turmeric powder, coconut oil, and freshly ground black pepper. You can make it yourself and refrigerate for 2 weeks.” One recipe we found for Golden Paste is as follows:
  1/2 c. turmeric powder
  1 c. water (plus up to an additional cup of water, if needed)
  2–3 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  1/3 c. healthy fat—either from raw, unrefined, cold-pressed coconut oil, flaxseed oil, or virgin/extra virgin olive oil. Combine the turmeric and 1 c. water in a saucepan, and bring to a boil. Turn the heat to low and simmer for 7–10 minutes or until the mixture becomes a thick paste. (You may need to add some or all of the additional water during this step.) Remove from heat and let the turmeric/water mixture cool down until it is warm and not hot. Add the freshly ground black pepper and oil, and stir well to incorporate. Allow it to cool, then keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze some if you don’t think you’ll use it up by then. You can use Golden Paste in smoothies, in yogurt, as a condiment—even as as an immune-booster for your pets!

Source: https://thegrownetwork.com/cold-flu-remedies-qotm-0218/

 

As an added bonus, I’m adding this recipe I just got in a newsletter from Green Smoothie Girl Robyn Openshaw:

Immune-Fuel Hot LemonAid

Fabulous immune-boosting hot drink featuring water, raw honey, raw apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, and cayenne pepper.

• 4 cups hot water (not boiling)
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp raw honey (raw is important)
• 1/2 piece peeled and chopped fresh ginger root
• 1/4 cup raw apple cider vinegar (raw is important)
• cayenne pepper to taste (the hotter the better)
• 2 cloves fresh garlic (optional)

1. Blend all ingredients for 30-60 seconds, until smooth, in a high-speed blender. Drink 1 cup at the first sign of illness, and another cup every 2 hours or as desired.
2. Do not re-heat Elixir after you make the batch; enzymes and immune-stimulating properties will be damaged.
3. Drink it cold or at room temperature after your first serving. It will last 1 week in the fridge but can be frozen!

Related Self-help Health posts:

Neti Your Nose

Don’t Under-estimate the Power of C

Kick-ass Flu Remedy

FYI, you can get many of the items mentioned in this post and other natural remedies at a discount at iHerb.com (use code CJG192 if you are a new customer and spend more than $40 and you will get $5 off your purchase). Plus, shipping is free on orders of $20 or more, you earn loyalty rewards cash, AND you get an extra 5% off on orders over $60. 

Vitacost and Thrive are two of my other favorite on-line places to shop. Great discount prices, ever-expanding inventory, free shipping on $49 and up, and if you sign-up for an account at Rakuten (formerly eBates) and then shop at those stores thru the Rakuten portal, you will get a $10 reward for your first order of $25, plus earn cash back from the store where you’re shopping. Woo-hoo! 

 

Salud!

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Disclaimer: Please note that any information here is provided as a guideline only, and is not meant to substitute for the advice of your physician, nutritionist, trained health care practitioner, and/or inner guidance system. Always consult a professional before undertaking any change to your normal health routine.